How to Search for a Company on the CIPC Database (Step-by-Step Guide)

Want to check if a company is registered or confirm a company’s details before doing business with them?

You can do that quickly using the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC)’s official online database.

The CIPC Company Search lets you verify a company’s registration number, directors, status, and type — essential for due diligence, compliance, and business verification.

Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide on how to search for a company on the CIPC database — and what the results actually mean.

What Is the CIPC Company Database?

The CIPC company database is South Africa’s official record of all registered companies, non-profit organisations, and close corporations.

Each business registered with CIPC has a unique:

• Company name

• Registration number

• Type of entity (Pty Ltd, CC, NPC, etc.)

• Director or member details

• Registration status (active, deregistered, etc.)

Smartbook Tip: This search is free and open to the public — you don’t need to log in to CIPC or have a customer code.

Why Search for a Company on CIPC? 

You might want to use the CIPC company search to:

• Confirm that a business is legally registered

• Check if your own company details are correct

• Verify a supplier, client, or contractor

• See if a company name is available before registering your own

• Check whether a company has been deregistered

It’s one of the easiest ways to avoid scams and ensure you’re dealing with real, compliant businesses.

How to Search for a Company on the CIPC Database (Step-by-Step) 

Here’s how to perform a free CIPC company search:

Step 1: Visit the CIPC Website 

Go to https://eservices.cipc.co.za.On the homepage, scroll down and click “Search” → “Company/Director Search.” Alternatively, go directly to the search tool:👉 https://eservices.cipc.co.za/Search.aspx

Step 2: Choose the Type of Search 

You can search by either:

• Company name, or

• Registration number

If you’re unsure of the exact name, enter only part of it (e.g. “Smartbook”) — the system will display all matching results.

Step 3: Enter the Company Details

Type the company name or registration number into the search bar and click “Search.”

Within a few seconds, the database will return matching company profiles.

Step 4: View the Company Information

The results will show:

• Company Name

• Registration Number

• Enterprise Type (e.g. Private Company, Close Corporation)

• Status (e.g. In Business, Deregistered, In Process of Deregistration)

You can click on the company name to see more detailed information such as:

• Registered date

• Registered address

• Director names and appointment dates

Step 5: Download or Screenshot for Proof 

If you’re verifying a company for compliance or a contract, take a screenshot or download the search result as proof of verification.

Understanding CIPC Search Results 

Here’s what the status results mean:

Status	Meaning
In Business	The company is active and compliant with CIPC.
In Process of Deregistration	The company missed annual returns and is pending deregistration.
Deregistered	The company has been officially removed from the register.
Converted	The business type has changed (e.g. from CC to Pty Ltd).

Smartbook Tip: If a company is “In Process of Deregistration,” Smartbook can help file their annual returns and restore it to “In Business” status.

What If You Can’t Find a Company on CIPC?

If your search returns no results, it usually means:

• The company name is spelled incorrectly.

• The company is not registered with CIPC.

• The business operates as a sole proprietor, not a registered entity.

• The company was deregistered and no longer appears in the database.

Smartbook can help verify whether the business ever existed, check old registration data, or assist with reinstatement if needed.

How Smartbook Can Help You 

Smartbook can help you:

• Verify company registration details instantly

• Retrieve official CIPC status reports

• Check director information and compliance status

• File annual returns or reinstatements if needed

Just send your company name or registration number, and Smartbook will provide a verified CIPC status summary within minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is the CIPC company search free?

Yes — anyone can search for a company on the CIPC database for free.

2. Can I see who the directors are?

Yes. The search results will display director names and appointment dates.

3. What does “In Process of Deregistration” mean?

It means the company hasn’t filed its annual returns and is about to be deregistered.

4. Can I search for a company by director name?

Yes. The CIPC database also allows you to search by director name or ID number (if you have it).

5. Can Smartbook help verify a company for me?

Yes. Smartbook can perform a professional CIPC search, confirm compliance status, and provide an official verification report.

Final Thoughts 

The CIPC company database is the most reliable way to check if a business is legitimate and compliant in South Africa.

Whether you’re verifying a client, partner, or your own company’s details, it only takes a few minutes — or Smartbook can do it for you.